If you are craving something incredibly indulgent, spicy, and savory, the Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe is about to become your new favorite obsession. Imagine perfectly seared steak and juicy shrimp tossed with fettuccine in a creamy, cheesy Alfredo sauce, all kicked up with a bold Cajun flair. This dish brings together the best of surf and turf with the kind of luscious, craveable sauce that drapes every noodle and morsel. Whether you’re planning a cozy date night or want a showstopper for friends, this pasta is pure bliss in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every element in this recipe counts, creating layers of flavor and gorgeous color that make it impossible to resist. You’ll find each ingredient simple yet absolutely essential, working together to turn weeknight pasta into something restaurant-worthy.
- Fettuccine pasta: The wide noodles are the perfect canvas for that rich and creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce.
- Olive oil: Gives the steak a beautiful sear while adding a fruity depth to the dish.
- Sirloin steak (thinly sliced): Tender, juicy steak adds heartiness and a classic surf-and-turf twist.
- Large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Shrimp soak up all the Cajun seasoning and blend beautifully into the creamy sauce.
- Cajun seasoning: The real star—grounds the whole dish with signature heat, smokiness, and savory depth.
- Unsalted butter: Lends lusciousness and helps meld the flavors of garlic and cream together.
- Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with an irresistible aroma and sharp flavor.
- Heavy cream: Provides that decadent, silky base for the Alfredo sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts beautifully, thickening the sauce and adding a deliciously salty, umami punch.
- Black pepper: Brings subtle spice and complexity that brings everything together.
- Salt: Enhances and balances the bold flavors throughout.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Turn up the heat a notch for spice lovers—totally customizable.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): A bright, fresh finishing touch both visually and for taste.
How to Make Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Begin by boiling a generous pot of salted water and cooking the fettuccine until just al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the noodles from sticking, then drain and set aside. This step ensures the pasta holds up beautifully when tossed in the creamy Alfredo sauce later.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the thinly sliced sirloin steak with half the Cajun seasoning, pressing it in so every piece is coated. Add the steak in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked to your liking. Remove the steak and set aside—you want it juicy and tender when it goes back into the pasta.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In that same skillet (no need to clean it—you want all those delicious steak drippings!), add the shrimp and sprinkle with the remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and start to curl. Don’t overcook, as you want them plump and tender. Remove and set aside alongside your steak.
Step 4: Build the Alfredo Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter directly into the skillet. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for a minute, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits for maximum flavor. Bring the cream to a gentle simmer, then stir in the grated Parmesan, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let this bubble gently for 3–4 minutes as it thickens.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add your perfectly cooked fettuccine into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss the noodles vigorously to coat every strand with that silky, cheesy sauce. Then return the steak and shrimp, along with any juices, back into the pan, and give it all a quick toss to mingle and warm through for 1–2 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Take the skillet off the heat and shower everything with chopped parsley. The green pop is as much for looks as it is for that fresh, slightly peppery flavor. The Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe is now ready to make its grand entrance at your table!
How to Serve Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe with a flurry of freshly chopped parsley for brightness, a few more shakes of Parmesan for extra richness, and, if you crave more heat, another sprinkle of Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes on top. A lemon wedge on each plate can be squeezed on for a zingy balance to the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish already feels like an event, but pairing it with the right sides can make the meal unforgettable. Serve it with warm, crusty garlic bread to mop up any extra sauce or a crisp Caesar or arugula salad to add a refreshing crunch and contrast. Roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans bring a lovely earthiness to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Step up your presentation by twirling the fettuccine into high-sided bowls, layering the steak and shrimp right on top. You can even finish each serving with a sprinkle of smoked paprika for dramatic effect. For a truly special dinner, serve family-style and let everyone dig in for the ultimate comfort-food experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place the Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe in an airtight container, and try to store the sauce and pasta together so everything stays creamy and flavorful without drying out.
Freezing
While cream-based sauces are never quite the same after freezing, you can freeze this pasta if needed. Cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 1 month. Upon thawing, the sauce may separate a bit—just give it a good stir and gently reheat with a splash of cream for best results.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat your Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe gently on the stove over low heat, adding a small splash of cream or milk to help loosen the sauce. Stir regularly and heat just until warmed through to avoid overcooking the shrimp or steak.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While fettuccine is ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce, you can swap in penne, linguine, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. The Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe is delicious no matter what noodle you pick.
Is there a way to lighten up the Alfredo sauce?
Try swapping half the heavy cream for whole milk, or even use evaporated milk for a lighter version. It won’t be quite as rich, but you’ll still get a creamy, flavorful sauce in your Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning?
Cajun seasoning varies by brand—some packs a real punch, while others are milder. Taste yours before adding, and adjust the quantity or add red pepper flakes depending on your spice tolerance.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free butter, swap in coconut cream or a plant-based unsweetened creamer for the heavy cream, and use a good vegan Parmesan alternative. These substitutions work well while still giving you that creamy texture you crave in the Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe.
What’s the best way to prep the steak for tenderness?
Thinly slicing the sirloin steak against the grain is key. You can even marinate it for half an hour in a mix of Cajun seasoning and a splash of Worcestershire sauce to amp up both flavor and tenderness.
Final Thoughts
If you love big, bold flavors and creamy pasta, you owe it to yourself to whip up the Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe soon. It’s a dish full of comfort, personality, and a hint of Cajun adventure. Grab those ingredients and treat the people you love (or just yourself!) to a meal that’s guaranteed to impress.
Print
Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a decadent and flavorful Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta dish that combines tender steak, succulent shrimp, and a creamy Alfredo sauce with a spicy Cajun kick. This surf and turf pasta is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings for a hearty and delicious meal.
Ingredients
Fettuccine Pasta:
8 oz fettuccine pasta
Olive Oil:
1 tablespoon olive oil
Sirloin Steak:
1/2 pound sirloin steak (thinly sliced)
Large Shrimp:
1/2 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Cajun Seasoning:
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (divided)
Unsalted Butter:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Garlic Cloves:
4 cloves garlic (minced)
Heavy Cream:
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
Parmesan Cheese:
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Black Pepper:
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt:
1/4 teaspoon salt
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes:
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Parsley:
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the fettuccine pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sear the steak: Season steak with Cajun seasoning, sear in a skillet until cooked, then set aside.
- Cook the shrimp: Cook shrimp with Cajun seasoning until pink, then set aside.
- Make the sauce: Sauté garlic in butter, add cream, Parmesan, seasonings, and simmer.
- Combine everything: Toss cooked pasta in the sauce, add steak and shrimp, warm through.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Marinate steak for extra flavor with Worcestershire sauce and Cajun seasoning.
- Adjust spiciness by using smoked paprika or extra crushed red pepper.
- Penne or linguine can be used instead of fettuccine.
